Alex Flex Vs. Alex Plus – which super glue should be your sidekick? I know, choosing between these adhesive heroes can be tougher than deciding between pizza or tacos. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
Let me break it down for you: Alex Flex is like the class valedictorian – responsible, hardworking, and gets the indoor job done with its strong, flexible bonds. Meanwhile, Alex Plus is the star quarterback – facing the elements head-on and laughing in the face of rain and snow thanks to its waterproof superpowers.
Bottom line – Alex Flex and Alex Plus are both adhesive champs ready to help you win DIY project homecoming king. So check out this head-to-head matchup to see which super glue sidekick fits your next mission. The clock is ticking – let’s bond!
Alex Flex Vs. Alex Plus: What’s The Difference?
The main difference between Alex Flex Vs. Alex Plus is: Alex Flex is ideal for flexible indoor/outdoor sealing of moldings and trims, while Alex Plus is a versatile all-purpose adhesive and sealant for both indoor and outdoor projects.
📝 My Hands-on Test of Alex Flex
Despite the natural shrinking and expansion of wood trim during different seasons, this caulk stays true and maintains its excellent appearance. I can confidently say that it is the only caulk I will ever use from now on. Trust me, unless you enjoy constantly redoing your trim by painstakingly removing old caulk with a razor blade and replacing it every few years, do yourself a favor and buy this caulk. It will save you a lot of hassle and frustration.
Unlike other fillers I’ve tried, which showed signs of cracking within four weeks, Alex Flex has remained intact. It was incredibly easy to install and required minimal sanding. It truly works as stated by the manufacturer.
One particular issue I had was a crack in the ceiling where the drywall wasn’t taped and mudded correctly. However, thanks to Alex Flex, I was able to close the gap and repaint it without any hassle. This product truly delivers on its promises.
While this caulk is not the best glue to use in shower sealing, it is still relatively easy to work with. However, I would advise caution during the application process, as it tends to get everywhere if you’re not careful. Taking the necessary precautions will help you avoid any unnecessary mess.
In conclusion, it spreads easily, allowing me to work with it effortlessly. Second, it holds its form between uses, so I don’t have to mix it each time I need it. Third, it dries reasonably quickly, saving me valuable time during my projects.
💬 FAQ of Alex Flex
Q: Is Alex Flex suitable for exterior stucco applications?
A: Unfortunately, it is not recommended for use on exterior stucco as it may wash away in rain. It is intended for interior use only.
Q: Is it possible to apply Alex Flex to a ceiling without experiencing any sagging?
A: Indeed, it is capable of being used on a ceiling without sagging.
Q: Can Alex Flex be utilized to fill gaps on VOG (vinyl on gypsum) wallboard after removing battens?
A: Yes, it can be used for that purpose. However, keep in mind that filling large gaps without additional structural support may not be effective. For gaps measuring 1/2 inch and larger, it is advisable to consider using support while filling the gap in stages.
Q: Are there any drawbacks to using this product compared to the pink stuff or fast-dry/final spackling?
A: When using these types of products to fill dents, holes, or cracks in preparation for painting and concealing them, it is advisable to start with harder, slower-drying products and finish with lighter-weight, faster-drying, and easier-to-sand products. The faster-drying and easier-to-sand products often tend to be weaker.
Q: Will sagging be a concern when using Alex Flex ceiling applications?
A: Most likely, unless it is applied in a very thin layer. It is considerably thinner than standard spackling and has the ability to level itself inside the container.
Q: Can Alex Flex be used to repair vinyl flooring that has a few cracks and a small missing piece?
A: It is not recommended. Alex Flex is specifically designed for drywall applications.
Q: Can this product be applied over red Devil kitchen and bath dura guard siliconized adhesive caulk?
A: No, it will not adhere properly to siliconized caulk.
Q: Between Alex Flex flexible spackling and Elastopatch, both from the same company, which one lasts longer when painted?
A: In my 130-year-old house, I have primarily used Alex Flex. Apart from one very deep crack, it has held up nicely. I have sculptured plaster and successfully patched and sculpted the dried Alex Flex using a Dremel tool. Alex Flex has a few more applications, but either product should serve you well. I hope this information is helpful.
Q: Is this product thin enough, ranging from 1/16″ to 1/32″, to repair peeled paint effectively?
A: Feathering the edges might be a bit more challenging compared to regular mud, but once dry, it can definitely be sanded. Therefore, it could potentially work for repairing peeled paint.
Q: Can this product be used for art on Canvas?
A: The suitability of this product for art on canvas depends on the artist’s creativity. It should adhere to the canvas, allowing the artist to create the desired texture after it dries.
Q: Can this product be smoothed with wet fingers during application?
A: To some extent, it can be smoothed with wet fingers, although it is not as malleable as other materials.
Q: What size of crack can this product effectively repair?
A: In my experience, it can effectively repair small cracks with little to no movement. However, it is worth mentioning that every crack I fixed with this product has reappeared, whereas similar cracks that I repaired using traditional tape and mud have remained in great condition. I would recommend avoiding this product as it seems too good to be true.
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Q: Can this product be used to patch a hole over silicone roof coating?
A: I’m not familiar with silicone roof coating. However, this product will not adhere to a silicone-based wall patch.
Q: Once it sets, is it as hard as plaster?
A: After it has set, we never touched it but attempted to sand and paint it. It’s similar to a mixture of caulk and plaster, slightly flexible, and doesn’t sand as smoothly as plaster.
Q: Since it is flexible, can I skip taping the joints in the gypsum wallboard?
A: Absolutely not. It is essential to use tape and mud for joint reinforcement.
Q: How long should I wait before applying a second coat?
A: Before applying a second coat, lightly sand the patch. If the patch sands away, creating dust instead of balling up and rolling off or clogging the sandpaper, it is likely to dry enough to be recoated.
Q: Can this product be applied to a mesh patch for repairing a larger hole?
A: No, Alex Flex is specifically designed for flexibility. You may want to search for “drywall butterfly patch” on Google for repairing larger holes.
Q: Is it necessary to use tape or mesh with this product to fix settling cracks?
A: It appears that this product is designed to be used without tape or mesh. I have recently used it to repair several settling cracks in old horsehair plaster, and so far, it seems to be working well. The true test will be the changing of seasons, but for now, it seems promising.
Q: Can you use Alex Flex on ceramic surfaces?
A: If the ceramic has a glazed finish, Dap might not adhere well to it. In such cases, it is best to roughen the surface by sandblasting it before applying the product.
Q: Is it necessary to use water-based sealer/paint, or can oil-based sealer and paint be used instead?
A: Yes, you can use oil-based sealer and paint over Alex Flex, rather than limiting yourself to water-based options.
📝 My Hands-on Test of Alex Plus
When I needed to paint my drywall, I followed the directions and used Alex Plus to caulk the inside corners before applying coats of drywall compound. The result was fantastic. After painting the walls, it looked flawless, and no one would ever know that I had made any repairs. I was extremely satisfied with the outcome.
One thing I appreciate about DAP is that they make the best all-around caulk. It’s not only easy to use, but it’s also waterproof, which is vital for long-lasting durability. The price was great, and the service was fast, making it an excellent value for the quality it provides.
For any finishing touches, Alex Plus came in handy. Whether it was covering up small blemishes on trim or baseboards or creating a smooth seal, it always delivered excellent results. Its versatility made it an essential tool for achieving a professional look.
When it comes to sealing and repairing, it’s hard to imagine doing it without Alex Plus. This product is an essential tool for tackling any cracks or gaps in an old house, providing a much-needed solution for maintaining a comfortable living space.
💬 FAQ of Alex Plus
Q: Would you say Alex Plus is the most effective product for sealing and waterproofing exterior sliding glass door jams that lead from a bedroom to a patio?
A: Based on my 20 years of experience in painting and caulking exteriors, I can confidently say that this caulk is exactly what you need for the job.
Q: Is it necessary to use a caulk gun with these bottles?
A: While it’s not mandatory, using a caulk gun makes the application easier.
Q: Can Alex Plus effectively seal small holes in walls or gaps between floors and moldings?
A: Yes, it can do the job. Just make sure to let it dry before exposing it to water or any solvents. Refer to the instructions on the label. The caulk is workable and can be cleaned up with water until it has completely dried or cured.
Q: If I apply a 1/2″ bead between 26-gauge sheet metal and the flat side of a pressure-treated 2×4 and leave it in the Florida sun, will it hold up?
A: It should work fine!
Q: Is the DAP All-Purpose Acrylic Latex Caulk + Silicone suitable for sealing around ceramic or granite to seal a sink?
A: Yes, it should work for that purpose.
Q: Can it be used for toilets?
A: Absolutely. I’ve used it on mine without any issues. You might also be interested in “what is the best adhesive for undermount sink to granite“
Q: I used Alex Flex last night around a halogen lighting can that gets hot. Could this caulk melt or combust?
A: Since it is a water-based product, it cannot combust. Melting is unlikely, but I can’t say for certain.
Q: How long does it take for DAP Alex Plus to fully cure?
A: DAP Alex Plus is fully cured within 24 hours.
Q: Is it possible to thin this product?
A: Unfortunately, there is no way to thin this particular product.
Q: Will Alex Plus work with a 1/10 caulking gun?
A: I believe it should be compatible.
Q: Does this item have a strong smell that could cause allergies?
A: No, it does not have a strong smell that would cause allergies.
Q: Can Alex Plus withstand direct exposure to the sun on sliding glass door jams?
A: I recommend reading the label for specific applications and guarantees. However, it has held up well for five years in my own house, which receives direct sun exposure.
Q: Can Alex Plus be used without a caulk gun?
A: No, this particular tube is designed for use with a caulk gun. However, you can find the same product in a tube for easier application by squeezing it out.
Q: What surfaces will it stick to or not stick to?
A: It will adhere to sinks, bathtubs, and similar surfaces. I think you might be interested in my article about what kind of adhesive for shower walls I chose.
Q: Can it be used like Green Glue to laminate MDF and plywood for creating a constrained layer cabinet panel for loudspeakers?
A: This caulk is intended for filling gaps in drywall and wood. For your project, I would recommend using liquid nails or wood glue.
Q: Can this caulk be painted over?
A: Yes, this caulking is paintable.
Q: Do I need to remove the old bathtub caulking?
A: There are caulk-removing compounds available, but a more traditional approach is to use a putty knife and elbow grease to scrape off the old caulk.
I’m Ronald Stevens, a Mechanical Engineer obsessed with adhesives, glue, and all things sticky! My passion began in childhood when I’d always be the one playing with glue during arts and crafts. And I’d spend hours researching and experimenting. Happy reading, and remember: stick with the best, and you’ll never be stuck in a mess!
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